Skip to Content
UW Health SMPH

Mydriatics

A mydriatic is a substance that causes the pupil of the eye to open (dilate). Mydriatic eyedrops are used during some types of eye exams and may also be used to treat inflammation of the eye (uveitis or iritis).

Common mydriatic drugs include cyclopentolate (such as Cyclogyl and Pentolair), phenylephrine (such as Neo-Synephrine), and tropicamide (such as Mydriacyl).

Last Revised: May 11, 2011

Author: Healthwise Staff

Medical Review: Anne C. Poinier, MD - Internal Medicine & Stanford M. Shoor, MD - Rheumatology

This information does not replace the advice of a doctor. Healthwise, Incorporated disclaims any warranty or liability for your use of this information. Your use of this information means that you agree to the Terms of Use. How this information was developed to help you make better health decisions.

To learn more visit Healthwise.org

© 1995-2013 Healthwise, Incorporated. Healthwise, Healthwise for every health decision, and the Healthwise logo are trademarks of Healthwise, Incorporated.